Gyeongsangnam-do is set to hold a large-scale international tourism investment conference to develop the South Coast into a 'global tourism investment hub.' However, concerns have been raised about the lack of clear incentives that would differentiate it from other regions.
As competition intensifies with established tourism cities like Jeju, Busan, and Jeonnam, experts emphasize the urgent need for Gyeongnam to present unique incentives and key content.
According to Gyeongsangnam-do, the '2026 Gyeongsangnam-do International Tourism Investment Conference (GITIC 2026)' will take place from September 9 to 11 at the Changwon Convention Center (CECO). This marks the second large-scale foreign investment attraction platform following the inaugural event in 2024.
The province aims to attract around 200 'genuine investors' from global hotel and resort companies, as well as domestic and international asset management firms, to invest in over ten tourism hubs along the South Coast. To achieve this, a comprehensive promotional network has been activated, utilizing key locations such as KTX, KOTRA's global trade offices, and the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM).
However, voices have emerged expressing that the promotional efforts lack a 'decisive factor' to entice global capital. Compared to other regions that have already established infrastructure and recognition, Gyeongnam needs to go beyond merely reaffirming its 'South Coast Vision' and present a clear differentiation strategy.
Currently, Gyeongsangnam-do is working to clarify its unique characteristics and strengths compared to other regions.
A representative from the province's investment attraction division stated, 'We are in the process of identifying what unique features Gyeongnam can present compared to other regions, holding ongoing meetings with 18 cities and counties and the Gyeongnam Investment Agency to find improvements.'
The key tourism investment candidate sites, which will serve as the basis for attracting investment, have not yet been disclosed. In response, a provincial official noted, 'We are in practical discussions to make the sites attractive to foreign investors by linking them with surrounding tourism content, and we will finalize and disclose them before the event to entice global investors.'
Industry experts caution against allowing the tourism investment attraction event to conclude with mere networking or ineffective MOUs.
For Gyeongnam's second international initiative to yield tangible results, it is essential to establish sophisticated and differentiated investment incentives and killer content that can surpass competing cities before the event.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.